Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review
Abstract
INTRODUCTION. Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a significant population of children. Omega-3 supplementation is being explored as an option since standard pharmacological treatments cause bothersome side effects. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses on its effects are outdated and show gaps in knowledge. Our objective is to examine the impact of Omega-3 fatty acids on the symptoms of ADHD in children. METHODS. RCTs were searched in MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science until May 1st 2024. Studies were included if they involved children aged 6-18 with ADHD who consumed Omega-3 fatty acids through diet or supplementation. Studies were excluded if they included individuals without an ADHD diagnosis, used animal models, or included vitamin supplements alongside Omega-3. Data extraction and Cochrane Risk-of-Bias analysis was performed using Covidence. Findings were described in tables and analyzed. RESULTS. Thirty-one eligible RCTs were included, amounting to 2,739 evaluated individuals with an average age of 8.93 years (SD = 1.39). Most studies had a two-arms design that compared Omega-3 vs. placebo. The effect on hyperactivity and impulsivity was reported in 23 studies, of which fourteen showed no effect and seven reported positive results. Ten out of 24 studies (41.6%) that evaluated inattention reported improvements. DISCUSSION. Studies were highly heterogeneous in design, interventions, trial duration, dosage, and…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 2,739 participants or records.
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